Crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower Oven and Air Fryer

Welcome to your new favorite meatless sensation: Bang Bang Cauliflower! This incredible dish transforms humble cauliflower florets into irresistible, crispy bites coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, or simply searching for an exciting new appetizer or side dish, this recipe is a must-try. Each floret is meticulously covered in a crunchy panko breading and baked to golden perfection, offering a satisfying texture contrast to the tender cauliflower inside. Served with its signature creamy, fiery, and tangy dipping sauce, Bang Bang Cauliflower is a culinary delight that proves healthy eating can be incredibly delicious.

Perfect for a vibrant Meatless Monday, a party appetizer, or a comforting main course when served in a rice bowl, this dish brings an explosion of flavor to any table. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and universally appealing taste make it an instant crowd-pleaser. Get ready to ditch the bland and embrace the bold with this dynamic cauliflower creation!

Imagine succulent cauliflower florets, first lovingly dipped in a zesty, spicy mayonnaise mixture, then enrobed in a generous coating of crispy panko breadcrumbs. This isn’t just any cauliflower; this is Bang Bang Cauliflower – a dish celebrated for its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The magical part? You can achieve this golden, crunchy perfection in either your conventional oven or a convenient air fryer, making it accessible for any home cook. Each method delivers a wonderfully crisp exterior, giving way to a tender, flavorful interior, all without the need for deep-frying.

The secret to its signature taste lies in the accompanying sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce. This creamy, vibrant sauce is a symphony of contrasting flavors – a subtle sweetness, a fiery kick, and a tangy finish – that perfectly complements the savory, crispy cauliflower. Enjoy it as a standalone snack, a delightful appetizer for gatherings, or transform it into a wholesome meal by serving it in a nourishing rice bowl with your favorite steamed or stir-fried vegetables.

This beloved recipe draws its inspiration from the famous Bang Bang Cauliflower served at the innovative Asian-fusion restaurant chain, Wagamama. Although Wagamama may no longer operate in Australia, its legacy of divine food lives on, particularly through dishes like this one. Recreating this restaurant-quality experience at home allows you to savor those unforgettable flavors, bringing a touch of gourmet dining to your kitchen with a fraction of the effort and cost. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly spectacular.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Bang Bang Cauliflower Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Bang Bang Cauliflower will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Here’s what makes it so irresistible:

• Effortlessly Easy to Prepare: You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip up this dish. With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can achieve impressive results with minimal fuss. It’s a fantastic recipe for busy weeknights or when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Bursting with Flavor: This isn’t just a healthy vegetable dish; it’s an explosion of taste. The combination of spicy mayonnaise, sweet chili, sriracha, and crispy panko creates a multi-layered flavor profile that’s sweet, spicy, savory, and utterly addictive. Every bite is a delightful sensory experience.
• Remarkably Versatile: Whether you need a standout appetizer, a flavorful side dish to complement your main course, or a satisfying vegetarian main meal, Bang Bang Cauliflower fits the bill. Serve it hot off the oven or air fryer, alongside a fresh salad, or as the star of a vibrant Buddha bowl.
• A Healthier Indulgence: Unlike traditionally deep-fried versions, our Bang Bang Cauliflower is baked or air-fried, significantly reducing the oil content while retaining all the crispy deliciousness. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a typically indulgent flavor.
• Perfect for Meatless Mondays: This recipe offers a fantastic, exciting alternative to meat-based meals, making it ideal for incorporating more plant-based options into your diet. It’s so flavorful and satisfying, even the most dedicated carnivores won’t miss the meat!

Essential Ingredients for Your Crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower

Crafting this flavorful dish requires a handful of readily available ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the signature taste and texture of Bang Bang Cauliflower. Below, we break down what you’ll need and why each ingredient is key. (Full measurements are provided in the comprehensive recipe card at the end of this article).

• Cauliflower: The star of our show! Choose a firm, white head of cauliflower without any dark spots. Cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness. About ½ a head is usually sufficient for 2-4 servings.
• Mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base of our spicy coating, helping the panko adhere and contributing to a rich flavor. For a vegan version, simply substitute with your favorite plant-based mayonnaise.
• Sweet Chilli Sauce: Adds a delightful balance of sweetness and a mild kick, characteristic of classic Bang Bang sauce. It’s essential for achieving that irresistible sweet-spicy dynamic.
• Sriracha: The primary source of heat! Adjust the amount of sriracha according to your preferred spice level. A teaspoon offers a pleasant warmth, but feel free to add more for an extra fiery kick.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are a game-changer for crispiness. Their flaky, airy texture provides a far superior crunch compared to traditional breadcrumbs, making them ideal for baked or air-fried dishes.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial to enhance all the other flavors and season the breadcrumb coating. Don’t skip it!
• Spray Oil: A light mist of oil helps the panko brown beautifully and become incredibly crisp, whether baking in the oven or air frying. Olive oil spray or avocado oil spray works wonderfully.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Perfect Bang Bang Cauliflower

Preparing this dish is straightforward, and we’ll guide you through both oven-baked and air-fried methods. Choose the one that best suits your equipment and preferences for perfectly crispy results every time.

Oven-Baked Method

For those who prefer traditional baking or are serving a larger crowd, the oven method delivers beautifully golden and crisp cauliflower.

1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a large baking tray with baking paper (parchment paper) or a silicone mat. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Sauces: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth, well-blended spicy mayonnaise mixture.
3. Prepare the Panko: On a separate plate or in a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt. Stir to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
4. Coat the Cauliflower: Add your bite-sized cauliflower florets to the bowl with the spicy mayonnaise. Toss gently until each floret is thoroughly coated. Then, transfer the coated florets, a few at a time, to the panko breadcrumb mixture. Roll and press gently to ensure they are fully covered with breadcrumbs.

5. Arrange and Bake: Transfer the breaded cauliflower florets to the prepared baking tray, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer without overcrowding. Lightly spray the cauliflower with oil. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around the 10-minute mark), carefully flip the cauliflower pieces to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides. Continue baking until they are beautifully golden brown and delightfully crisp.

6. Serve: Serve your crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower immediately, either as a stand-alone snack or appetizer, or as part of a delicious rice bowl generously drizzled with extra Bang Bang sauce and fresh vegetables.

Air Fryer Method

For a quicker, equally crispy result with even less oil, the air fryer is your best friend!

1. Prepare the Coatings: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. On a separate plate, combine the panko breadcrumbs and salt.
2. Coat the Cauliflower: Toss the cauliflower florets in the spicy mayonnaise until well-coated. Then, transfer them to the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring each piece is fully covered.
3. Air Fry: Lightly spritz the breaded cauliflower with oil. Carefully transfer the florets to your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even crisping.

4. Cook to Perfection: Air fry the cauliflower at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 20 minutes. Remember to shake the basket or flip the cauliflower pieces halfway through the cooking time to ensure they crisp up evenly on all sides and achieve that desirable golden hue.

5. Serve: Once golden and crisp, remove from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy them as a snack, an appetizer, or create a satisfying meal by adding them to a rice bowl with fresh vegetables and a generous drizzle of Bang Bang sauce.

Expert Tips for Crafting the Best Bang Bang Cauliflower

Achieving perfectly crispy and flavorful Bang Bang Cauliflower is simple with a few helpful tips:

• Handle with Care: When flipping the cauliflower pieces halfway through cooking, do so gently. While they are still cooking, the cauliflower will be quite soft, and the breadcrumbs can easily be dislodged. Use tongs carefully to maintain the integrity of the crispy coating.
• Monitor Cooking Times: Every oven and air fryer is different, and cooking times can vary. For the first time you make this recipe, closely monitor your cauliflower. You’re looking for florets that are perfectly golden brown, holding their shape without flopping over, and wonderfully crisp. Adjust cooking time as needed for your specific appliance.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Tray/Basket: Whether baking or air frying, ensure your cauliflower florets are in a single layer with enough space between them. Overcrowding can steam the cauliflower instead of crisping it, leading to a soggy result. If necessary, cook in batches.
• Uniform Florets for Even Cooking: Cut your cauliflower into roughly equal, bite-sized florets. This ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others burn.
• Ensure Full Panko Coverage: The panko breadcrumbs are key to the crispy texture. Make sure each floret is completely coated in the spicy mayonnaise and then thoroughly dredged in the panko mixture for maximum crunch.
• A Good Spray of Oil: Don’t skip the spray oil! A light mist over the breaded cauliflower before cooking is vital for achieving that beautiful golden color and desired crispiness.

Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions

While Bang Bang Cauliflower is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative with variations and serving styles:

• Customize the Spice Level: Easily adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha in the sauce. For a milder version, you can even omit sriracha entirely and rely on the sweet chili sauce for flavor.
• Go Vegan: To make this dish entirely plant-based, simply substitute regular mayonnaise with your favorite vegan mayonnaise. The rest of the ingredients are typically vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Option: For those with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. They offer a similar crisp texture.
• Add Garnishes: Enhance the presentation and flavor with fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a scattering of fresh cilantro or parsley.
• Beyond Cauliflower: This coating and sauce method can be applied to other vegetables or proteins! Try it with broccoli florets, firm tofu cubes, or even chicken pieces for a different twist.
• Serving Ideas: Beyond rice bowls, Bang Bang Cauliflower makes an excellent filling for soft tacos, lettuce wraps, or alongside a crisp Asian-inspired salad. It’s also fantastic simply as a party appetizer served with toothpicks.

Storing and Reheating Your Bang Bang Cauliflower

Leftovers of Bang Bang Cauliflower are a rare treat, but if you happen to have any, here’s how to best store and reheat them to retain their deliciousness:

• Storage: Store any leftover cooked Bang Bang Cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Note that the breading will soften over time.
• Reheating for Crispiness: To bring back the crispy texture, avoid the microwave. The best way to reheat is in an air fryer or oven.
  • Air Fryer: Place the cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 160°C (325°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crisp again.
  • Oven: Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8-10 minutes, or until hot and re-crisped.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Cauliflower:

• Can I prepare the cauliflower ahead of time?

  You can cut the cauliflower florets and store them in the refrigerator. You can also mix the spicy mayonnaise sauce ahead of time. However, it’s best to coat the cauliflower in panko and cook it just before serving to ensure maximum crispiness.

• What kind of oil should I use for spraying?

  Any high-heat cooking oil in a spray bottle works well. Olive oil spray, avocado oil spray, or canola oil spray are all good choices. The key is a light, even coating to help with browning and crisping.

• Why is panko better than regular breadcrumbs for this recipe?

  Panko breadcrumbs are made from crustless white bread and have a flakier, coarser, and lighter texture than traditional breadcrumbs. This allows them to absorb less oil and become much crispier and airier when cooked, creating that desired crunchy coating.

• Can I deep-fry Bang Bang Cauliflower?

  While this recipe focuses on healthier baked or air-fried methods, you technically could deep-fry it. If you choose to, fry in oil preheated to 175°C (350°F) for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Be aware this will significantly increase the fat content.

Discover More Delicious & Easy Meatless Dinner Recipes

If you loved this Bang Bang Cauliflower, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of our fantastic plant-based recipes that are simple to make and packed with flavor:

• Hearty Vegetable Stir Fry with Noodles
• Rich and Savory Lentil Bolognese
• Fresh Pea and Feta Fritters
• Delightful Mini Vegetarian Quiches
• Light and Healthy Vegetarian Rice Paper Rolls
• Comforting Vegetarian Three Bean Chili
• Classic Vegetarian Quiche
• Simple and Flavorful Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil (Aglio E Olio)

We truly hope you enjoy making and devouring this Bang Bang Cauliflower! Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us. If you’ve made this recipe, please share your thoughts and a star rating in the comments section below!

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📋 Recipe: Bang Bang Cauliflower {Oven and Air Fryer}

Bang Bang Cauliflower {Oven and Air Fryer}

Yield: 2-4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Spice up your dinner routine with some Bang Bang Cauliflower. Cauliflower florets are covered in panko breadcrumbs and baked until crisp and golden either in an oven or an air fryer. Serve with sweet and spicy dipping sauce either as is or in a rice bowl. This dish is vegetarian and perfect for meatless Monday!

Ingredients

• ½ head of Cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Sweet Chilli Sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
• Salt, to taste
• Spray Oil (e.g., Olive Oil or Avocado Oil)

Optional (for serving)

• Bang Bang Sauce (homemade or store-bought, recipe linked in article notes)

Instructions

IN THE OVEN

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chilli sauce, and sriracha together. On a separate plate, mix panko breadcrumbs and salt.
3. Toss the cauliflower florets in the spicy mayonnaise until fully coated, then transfer to the breadcrumb plate and cover thoroughly.
4. Arrange the breaded cauliflower on the prepared baking tray in a single layer. Spray lightly with oil.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the cauliflower pieces halfway through, until golden and crisp.
6. Serve as is, or in a rice bowl with vegetables, with Bang Bang Sauce.

IN THE AIR FRYER

1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chilli sauce, and sriracha together. On a separate plate, mix panko breadcrumbs and salt.
2. Toss the cauliflower florets in the spicy mayonnaise until fully coated, then transfer to the breadcrumb plate and cover thoroughly.
3. Spritz the breaded cauliflower with oil, then transfer to the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
4. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the cauliflower pieces halfway, until golden and crisp.
5. Serve as is, or in a rice bowl with vegetables, with Bang Bang Sauce.

Notes

• Flip the cauliflower carefully during cooking. It will be soft, and you don’t want to remove the breadcrumbs.
• Monitor cooking times closely as appliances vary. Cook until crisp (holds its shape) and golden.
• Serve with your favorite Bang Bang Sauce for the full experience.

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 216 | Total Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0g | Unsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 433mg | Carbohydrates: 26g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Protein: 5g